Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) isn’t rushing to lift up Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) as Florida’s next governor despite President Donald Trump’s recent preemptive endorsement of the congressman for 2026. DeSantis expressed doubt that Donalds should be looking at the gubernatorial race and encouraged him to focus on achieving legislative accomplishments with a slim Republican majority.

In Congress, he’s been part of the ultraconservative Tea Party caucus. Highly thought of by Republican colleagues, he won a few votes in early 2023 to become speaker of the Florida House. Following Trump’s lead, Donalds in January introduced a bill to end taxes on tips.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) took a swipe at Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) on Monday as the congressman inches closer to launching his gubernatorial campaign in the state.  “My view is Donald Trump

The president pledged to give Donalds his full endorsement, announcing it in a post on Truth Social on Thursday evening.

President Donald Trump made clear who he wants as the next Governor of Florida. In a Truth Social post, Trump all but endorsed U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds to run as the state’s next chief executive in 2026. Donalds responded by all but announcing his candidacy.

Rep. Byron Donalds teases a possible Florida governor run at CPAC, as he presents the Sunshine State as a model of conservative governance.

Dr. Susan MacManus, USF Professor Emerita of Political Science and political analyst, discusses the Floirda governor's race, Casey DeSantis, and more.